Zostrix HP is a topical cream made from the phytochemical capsaicin, a substance extracted from hot chili peppers. Capsaicin is a natural pain-reliever that can be used to relieve the swelling, stiffness and pain caused by arthritis. Because there is no cure for arthritis, many people treat the symptoms with oral medications and topical creams such as Zostrix HP. As always, consult your doctor before trying any new product for arthritis.
Arthritis
Arthritis causes inflammation of the joints and is the leading cause of disability in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There are over 100 different kinds of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common type and occurs due to wear and tear of the joints. Cartilage is a spongy material that protects your joints from harm and helps absorb shock during movement. Arthritis causes bone erosion and a break down of the cartilage around the joint, resulting in pain, stiffness and swelling. The condition is chronic and progressive, so physicians focus on symptom relief for patients, including oral medications and medicated topical creams.
Zostrix HP
Zostrix was developed as a medicated cream to treat sprains, muscle aches and arthritis. Zostrix works by reducing a chemical in the body called substance P, which transports messages of pain to the brain. When the amount of substance P is reduced, you experience less pain and stiffness. Zostrix High Potency cream was formulated to be triple the strength of the original Zostrix formula and is suggested for moderate to severe arthritis. You can use Zostrix HP alone or as a part of your arthritis treatment plan. Zostrix HP should only be applied to the skin, or irritation may occur. Apply Zostrix HP exactly as shown on the container for maximum effectiveness. According to Drugs.com, you may experience a slight tingling or burning sensation, which is attributed to the capsaicin in Zostrix HP.
Research
Researchers searched the Cochrane Reviews in 2009 and interpreted controlled trials to determine the efficacy and tolerability of topically applied capsaicin-based creams for chronic neuropathic pain in adults. Their conclusions indicate that capsaicin creams can provide moderate relief for people with chronic pain. This is especially promising for individuals who are not able to take oral pain medications, or have a history of stomach problems made worse by arthritis medications. Results from three other double blind, placebo-controlled studies published in 2001 in "Rheumatology" confirmed that capsaicin cream provides substantial symptom relief over placebo creams for the pain and tenderness of osteoarthritis. As a result, capsaicin-based creams may allow some individuals to reduce dependence on pain medications.
Precautions
Although Zostrix HP cream is made from a natural substance, it still contains substances that can trigger adverse reactions. People allergic to chili peppers should not use capsaicin-based creams. Seek immediate medical attention for symptoms of an allergic reaction such as hives, severe skin irritation, trouble breathing and difficulty swallowing. Wash your hands thoroughly after applying Zostrix HP and avoid the eye area to lessen your chance of irritation. As always, talk to your doctor before applying any kind of medication or topical treatment to your skin.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Arthritis; May 23, 2011
- Health Care Products; Zostrix Information
- Drugs.com; Zostrix-HP
- Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews; Topical Capsaicin for Chronic Neuropathic Pain in Adults; Derry S, et al.; October 2009
- "Rheumatology"; Herbal Medicines for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis; L.Long et al.; 2001
